PROTEST: Protesters, Community Youths Clash in Bayelsa
POLITICS DIGEST – A crisis erupted in the Biogbolo community of Yenagoa Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, as a group of youths opposed to the protest attacked demonstrators marching on the Mbiama/Yenagoa road.
It was gathered that most communities in the state capital had reportedly mobilized to resist any form of protest in their areas.
The situation escalated when a large group of protesters began marching from the Opolo axis of the main road towards Ebis Mechanic Junction.
They were stopped by a team of police officers monitoring the situation to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
Despite police intervention, the protesters insisted on continuing their march, expressing grievances about the country’s economic situation and asserting their right to protest.
The argument turned into a serious crisis when community youths unexpectedly attacked the protesters from behind with bottles, large planks, and other weapons.
Gunshots were heard, causing the protesters to disperse and flee in different directions for their safety.
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It was earlier observed a near-zero protest in the Yenagoa metropolis as of 8am.
Security agencies were seen stationed at major junctions and roundabouts with socio-economic activities completely shut down.
However, people were seen going about their normal business and there was no restriction of human and vehicular movements.
Banks, shops, and eateries were also closed while the Swali and Tombia markets were partially operating.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Musa Mohammed, quoted the Commissioner of Police, Alonyenu Francis Idu, as acknowledging the proposed nationwide protest and respecting the right of citizens to assemble and express their views peacefully as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He tasked Area Commanders, DPOs, Tactical Units, and the drone unit to provide robust security coverage during and after the protest.
The CP urged all organisers and protesters to conduct the protest responsibly and peacefully, and not to engage in acts of violence, looting, or any other criminal activities.
“Anyone caught engaging in criminal activities will face the full wrath of the law,” Idu warned.
